The Olympic Roads

Lifetime Opportunity

Lifetime Opportunity

During the year before the Olympics, the Olympic Stadium was completed. 

Sonic and his friends managed to get into the stadium so that they had a rough idea of what the atmosphere would be like. They were all in their eye-catching blue and red tracksuits as they were going to an Olympic Exhibition Event later at Crystal Palace. 

"This looks amazing." He said. 

"This is where we'll be next summer," Nicholas said. "Although I've lived most of my life in Britain, I'll be representing South Africa because I'm proud of my roots. On top of that, I had a great time there last summer for the World Cup. It felt great to be back home." 

"Quite rightly so. But back to the business in hand. My family have won 16 gold medals between them and my dad was in the relay for the last 3 Olympics. During that time he was with James Prime. James was a devoted athlete. Started his career in Sydney and retired in Beijing, same time as my dad. He won 5 gold medals during his career, 2 of which were at the World Championships in Osaka 4 years ago. They've been close friends ever since they met back in Sydney." And speaking of which. 

"What's this you're saying about us?" James and Boeing were also in the stadium getting a feel of the potential atmosphere. 

They overheard what Sonic and his friends said about their careers. They were in their tracksuits as well because they were going to be coaching the team. 

"Hey dad, hi James." Sonic was happy to see his dad. 

"Hi son. You guys all set for the trials today?" Boeing asked. 

"Everyone except me. I can go to these try-outs but I won't be competing. I'll be heading to South Africa to do my trials there," Nicholas replied. "I'm going to represent South Africa if I make it to the games." 

"We have nothing against that. If you want to represent South Africa then go ahead." James responded. 

"Talking of which, when are the trials for South Africa to qualify for the athletics?" 

"July 11th," James replied. "5 days away." 

"Excellent. I'll be staying there for a while. 

"Will you be staying for the trials here?" Sonic asked. 

Nicholas gave him the thumbs up. 

"Excellent. Let's go." Jason said 

"Before we do, I have something to say to you guys. Gather round, it's time for a team talk," James had a thing for team talks. He always enjoyed doing them as he was always able to inspire and motivate the athletes he coached. "Boeing has been telling me about you guys in our meetings and I'm impressed by the progress you've made. If you do make it to the Olympics, I'll be very proud of you and Nicholas, if you make it, I'll be proud of you as well. Jamie, I know you'll be busy with college over the next year if you make it. Good luck with the course. Jason, I want you to support him every step of the way and help him if he requires it. Dale, try and socialise more often to improve your confidence. And now...you Sonic. You're family has a career that has been going strong for a long time. Think of it as the torch relay. Comet started the relay in his generation, he passed on to Boeing and he's passing on to you. You all have something special inside that's just waiting to come out. Use that to help you in your Olympic trials and you will go far." 

"Thanks for that James. Crystal Palace, here we come." And with that, everyone went to the Olympic trials for the chance to qualify for the 2012 Olympics.